You’re probably not surprised to hear of small and local Canadian businesses using WordPress to power their websites. Because WordPress is open-source (i.e. “free”), developing a small business website based on WordPress is an affordable option for most small businesses. And there are many WordPress resources available to extend the features of a website.
Additionally, there are many small web design firms with low overhead who are able to provide great web design services at affordable rates, with fast turnaround and ongoing support and website maintenance. If a business’ marketing budget allows, there are also larger marketing agencies who develop WordPress websites.
But what about small and medium sized businesses who need more than a simple information website? Because of increasing online competition, Canadian businesses need websites that have more than just basic information about their businesses. They need an online marketing platform.
Can WordPress handle their needs?
Depending on which website developer or marketing agency you talk to, you’ll get a variety of answers to that question. The best web designers and online marketing consultants will tell you that your first priority should be a smart, strategic marketing plan. The technology used and the development platform is secondary. But when it comes to actually implementing your marketing plan into website design and development, is WordPress a good choice?
For smaller, local businesses, I could show you dozens of great examples of Canadian businesses using WordPress for their website needs. But to demonstrate that WordPress is not just for blogging or for businesses with smaller marketing budgets, I’m showcasing the following examples of small and medium-sized Canadian businesses using WordPress for their online marketing needs.
I can assure you there are many more examples (feel free to add them in the Comments below). But these are well-designed websites that help Canadian businesses in a variety of industries to implement their marketing plans.
Services and Manufacturing Industry
Conair Aerial Firefighting
“Conair Group Inc. (Conair) is the world leader in specialty aircraft operations, delivering a comprehensive range of purpose-engineered, aerial firefighting, multi-role aircraft and services worldwide.”
Conair (Abbotsford, BC) also manufactures customized aircraft, which they sell to communities around the world to service their aerial firefighting needs.
Notable website features
- Large, clear photos on every page including photo gallery
- Dedicated sites for English and French versions for Canadian operations, English and French versions for France operations, and their US partner
- Clear and simple contact page with various ways to contact sales and tech support
Consumer Services Industry
Toronto Home and Reno Show
https://gtahomeandrenoshow.com
“The GTA Home & Reno Show is the ‘premier’ resource for consumers located in the Greater Toronto Area wanting to upgrade or renovate their home. Over the course of four days, you will get invaluable face to face to with our qualified audience of over 29,000.”
The website features information for exhibitors and attendees.
Notable website features
- Clear call to action on the home page
- Mix of useful and interesting blog posts
- Sponsor logos add authority and credibility
- Searchable exhibitor directory
Food Industry
Silver Hills Bakery
“At Silver Hills Bakery, our delicious, specially crafted breads are baked using a unique sprouting process that harnesses the best of pure, quality ingredients to nutritiously fuel busy, active days.”
Based in Abbotsford, BC, Silver Hills products are available at retailers across North America.
Notable website features
- Clean, easy to navigate mobile version
- Video on Home page
- Powerful product search tools
- “Where to buy” store locator
Entertainment Industry
Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation
http://www.olgslotsandcasinos.ca
Official site with extensive information about casino and slot facilities in Ontario.
Notable website features
- Calendar of upcoming events – monthly view
- Switch between English and French versions of site with one click
- Directory for various locations, with events, directions, info and shuttle schedule for each
- Dining menu with prices
- Instructions for learning various casino games
Consumer Products Industry
Outland Living
“At Outland Living our passion is to design and manufacture high quality and innovative products to better enable our customers to enjoy the great outdoors. Our goal is to promote outdoor living in a safe, enjoyable and sustainable way.”
Based in Surrey, BC, Outland Living are the creators of popular propane fire pits and award-winning fire tables, as well as other outdoor living products. Products are sold online and at retailers in Canada, USA, and the UK.
Notable website features
- Secure e-commerce enabled website with full product line
- Comparison chart for features of each product model
- Downloadable product manuals
- Online product registration form
More Canadian WordPress websites
These are just five examples of Canadian businesses using WordPress. These websites demonstrate the power of WordPress to help Canadian businesses market their products and services online. Of course, there are many more out there!
